SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Occupational Certificate: Hot Water System Installer (Solar Water Installer) 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
94619  Occupational Certificate: Hot Water System Installer (Solar Water Installer) 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - IOPSA (Construction) 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
QCTO - Quality Council for Trades and Occupations  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate  Field 12 - Physical Planning and Construction  Building Construction 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  67  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0425/24  2018-07-01  2025-12-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-30   2029-12-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Solar Water Installer.

The solar water installer installs, tests, repairs and maintains solar water heating systems and equipment. These tasks will meet the requirements for safe and correct installation of new and replacement of non-functioning domestic solar water heating systems complete with all the relevant and applicable safety and hydraulic control units. It covers domestic solar water heating systems that fall within the scope of SANS 151 up to 500 litres.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Prepare and plan for the installation of solar water heating systems.
  • Install solar water heating systems in a safe and compliance environment.
  • Diagnose and repair faults and maintaining solar water heating systems.

    Rationale:
    The Plumbing Industry Registration Board (PRIB) as a SAQA registered Professional Body which has the responsibility to ensure that the skills in the plumbing industry meet the requirements to provide effective and competent Solar Water Heater Installation services. The industry constituencies identified the need to address new technology within the industry as well as the growing critical need for alternative energy sources.

    Solar Water Heating is not a new technology, however, as result of the growing concern of global warming and South Africa's energy challenges, the application and uses of this technology in the domestic and commercial sectors is growing. Recent changes to the National Building Regulations prescribed that 50% of our hot water needs must be generated from a renewable source. These changes and other factors has resulted in the growth and increasing demand for the use of Solar Water Heating as an alternative water heating method in plumbing installation. Like many international countries, South Africa has identified solar water heating as a suitable alternate method of heating water in a plumbing installation. It must however, be noted that the international comparability is very limited as not many have accredited National Certificates or skilling programmes in Solar Water Heating.

    The learners who will enter into this Industry will come from different areas such as school leavers with relevant qualifications; workers already within the industry, already qualified plumbers will also be able to enrol for up skilling as practising artisans in the Solar Water Heater installations. Obtaining this qualification will also improve the employability of individuals in the relevant sub sectors of the plumbing industry.

    This qualification resides as one of several in the construction industry and makes allowance for any feeder occupations to gain access to the Solar Water Heater Installer occupation. The Solar Water Heater Installer qualification also makes provision for people to progress within this discipline to specialisation areas including mounting Domestic Solar Water Heater systems, Domestic Solar Water Heater system installation, testing, commissioning and housekeeping and assessment, diagnosis, fault finding, repair and maintenance activities.

    The main benefits of this qualification for the learner are that the learner has an opportunity to be recognised as a qualified Solar Water Heater Installer with well-structured, relevant and current competencies and will be able to have access to entrepreneurial opportunities within the plumbing environment.

    The learner will possess usable competencies whether as an employee or employer. Alternative energy is critical for the wellbeing of the general society. The economy will grow positively when saving on a scarce resource such as coal for the generation of electricity if it is managed efficiently by qualified people. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record.

    RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

    Entry Requirements:
  • NQF Level 3 with Mathematics. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification is made up of the following compulsory Knowledge and Practical Skill Modules:

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 642602001-KM-01, Theory of Water, NQF Level 4, 2 Credits.
  • 642602001-KM-02, Solar Water Heating Tools, Equipment and Components, NQF Level 4, 2 Credits.
  • 642602001-KM-03, Solar Water Heating Systems, NQF Level 4, 3 Credits.
  • 642602001-KM-04, Preparation, Installation and Maintenance Theory for Solar Water Heating Systems, NQF Level 4, 7 Credits.
    Total number of Credits for Knowledge Modules: 14.

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 642602001-PM-01, Plan and prepare for the installation of pipes and mounting of solar water heating system, NQF Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 642602001-PM-02, Read and interpret construction drawings and specifications, NQF Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 642602001-PM-03, Install pipes and pipe fittings, NQF Level 2, 3 Credits.
  • 642602001-PM-04, Mount and fit solar water heating system, NQF Level 2, 3 Credits.
  • 642602001-PM-05, Erect, use and dismantle access equipment for construction work, NQF Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 642602001-PM-06, Prepare and plan for the installation of solar water heating systems in a safe and compliant environment, NQF Level 4, 3 Credits.
  • 642602001-PM-07, Install solar water heating systems, NQF Level 4, 5 Credits.
  • 642602001-PM-08, Conduct maintenance and make repairs to solar water heating systems, NQF Level 4, 2 Credits.
    Total number of Credits for Practical Skill Modules: 23.

    This qualification also requires the following Work Experience Modules:
  • 642602001-WM-01, Processes and procedures for mounting solar water heating systems, NQF Level 2, 6 Credits.
  • 642602001-WM-02, Site preparation and planning processes for the installation of solar water heating systems in specific environmental conditions, NQF Level 3, 5 Credits.
  • 642602001-WM-03, Processes and procedures for solar water heating system installation, testing, commissioning and housekeeping, NQF Level 4, 10 Credits.
  • 642602001-WM-04, Procedures and processes for assessment, diagnosis, fault finding, repair and maintenance activities, NQF Level 4, 9 Credits.
    Total number of Credits for Work Experience Modules: 30. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Ability to prepare and plan for the installation of solar water heating systems.
    2. Ability to install solar water heating systems.
    3. Ability to diagnose and repair faults and maintain solar water heating system. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Construction drawings are read and interpreted to indicate aspects of project specifications.
  • Project specifications are used to determine quantities and quality of work of equipment and materials required for a specific task.
  • Work area is prepared and set out in accordance with control positions and levels indicated in drawings or instructions received from the supervising plumber.
  • Hand and power tools and equipment are identified, selected and used in accordance with OHSA and SHEQ requirements.
  • Existing services and built-in items are identified and protected against damage.
  • Knowledge and understanding to prepare and plan for the installation of solar water heating systems is demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Pipes and pipe fittings are identified and selected according to purpose and instructions.
  • Specified dimensions are accurately interpreted from plumber's instructions according to regulations.
  • The location, orientation and positioning of solar water heating components are completed as per instructions and procedure.
  • Solar heating systems are mounted for a variety of roof types.
  • Inspection of scaffold boards are free of damage and obstruction and the area where the scaffolding is erected is level and free of obstruction is conducted.
  • Systems selected are appropriate in terms of size, storage tanks and collector choice.
  • Knowledge and understanding to install solar water heating systems is demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Scheduled maintenance is carried out to prevent a breakdown or failure of any component of the system.
  • Unscheduled maintenance is carried out to repair a breakdown or failure of any component of the system.
  • Repairs are conducted in accordance with manufacturer's specifications.
  • Knowledge and understanding to diagnose and repair faults and maintain solar water heating system is demonstrated.

    Integrated Assessment:
    An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant QCTO Assessment Quality Partner is required for the issuing of this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria.

    The external assessment model requires that the external summative assessment be conducted through a combination of a written assessment and practical task at an accredited assessment centre. Thus, the external integrated summative assessment will be conducted through a trade test conducted in terms of Section 26 D of the Skills Development Act and defines in the Trade Test Regulations. It will be conducted through an evaluation of written and practical tasks covering critical aspects of the trade and conducted in a simulated environment at an assessment centre accredited by the QCTO and conducted by an assessor registered by National Artisan Moderation Body. The assessment will take place over a minimum of 2 days. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Two qualifications were drawn in order to conduct a comparative analysis that is the Solar Accreditation qualification offered by the Clean Energy Council in Australia and the entry level qualification offered by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. The following were compared to the Occupational Certificate: Hot Water System Installer (Solar Water Installer): the competencies and the purpose.

    The Clean Energy Council is a body representing Australia's clean energy sector. It is an industry association made up of more than 550 member companies operating in the fields of renewable energy and energy efficiency. They offer a qualification called the Solar Accreditation which develops competence in the design and/or installation of solar power systems. The Council is committed to ensuring the high quality of solar installations by accredited installers and improving the standards of the solar photovoltaic (PV) industry.

    Accreditation with the Clean Energy Council gives installers access to continuous professional development and technical support to ensure the best possible standard of solar photovoltaic (PV) installations across Australia. In order for students to obtain full accreditation they are required to submit a case study of about one installation they have performed. This is to demonstrate competency in designing and installing of solar systems. Once they receive approval, the full accreditation lasts for two years after which time they are required to renew their application.

    Upon completion of the qualification a student will exit with the following competencies.

    Electrical Knowledge - Units of Competency:
  • Apply Occupational Health and Safety regulations, codes and practices in the workplace.
  • Fabricate, assemble and dismantle utilities industry components.
  • Solve problems in d.c. circuits.
  • Fix and secure electrotechnology equipment.
  • Use drawings, diagrams, schedules, standards, codes and specifications.
  • Lay wiring/cabling and terminate accessories for ELV circuits.
  • Solve problems in electromagnetic devices and related circuits.

    PV System Knowledge - Units of Competency:
  • Carry out basic repairs to renewable energy apparatus.
  • Solve basic problems in photovoltaic energy apparatus.
  • Solve problems in stand-alone renewable energy systems.
  • Install ELV standalone photovoltaic power systems.
  • Design grid connected photovoltaic power supply systems.
  • Design stand-alone renewable energy.
  • (RE) systems.
  • Install, configure and commission LV grid connected photovoltaic power systems.

    Endorsements - Required Units of Competency:
  • Design hybrid renewable power systems.
  • Solve basic problems in micro-hydro systems.
  • Install, set up and maintain ELV micro-hydro systems rated up to 6.4 kW.
  • Design micro-hydro systems rated to 6.4 kW.
  • Solve problems in wind energy conversion systems rated up to 10 kW.

    Solar Heating Installer Job Task Analysis (JTA):
    The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) Solar Heating Installer Certification has been developed in accordance with the certification field's best practices and is based on a comprehensive Job Task Analysis (JTA) that was developed by a wide range of leading industry professionals. In order to qualify to take the NABCEP Solar Heating Exam, candidates must meet certain qualifications. In addition to requirements that include a signed code of ethics and demonstrating safety training, candidates must provide documentation that verifies a combination of training and experience.

    The NABCEP Solar Heating Installer JTA defines a general set of knowledge, skills and abilities typically required of practitioners who install and maintain solar hot water or pool heating systems. The JTA guides the development of an exam by which candidates for certification can demonstrate that they truly possess the skills and knowledge that their peers and experts have deemed necessary to do the job well. Created by solar heating industry experts, it is the core document for the development of the NABCEP Solar Heating Installer Certification.

    Solar Heating Installer Competencies:
  • Prepare For Project.
  • Review the construction plans.
  • Assemble materials.
  • Assemble and inspect safety protection equipment.
  • Assemble tools.

    Evaluate the Site:
  • Compare design to site.
  • Inspect and document existing site conditions.
  • Ensure OSHA compliance.
  • Ensure code compliance.

    Plan System Installation:
  • Lay out collector(s) installation.
  • Plan solar loop pipe.
  • Plan mechanical room/area.

    Install System:
  • Install solar collectors.
  • Install solar loop.
  • Install balance-of-system.
  • Wire the system.
  • Pressure test the system.
  • Fill the system.
  • Install insulation.
  • Implement site safety plan.

    Commission the System:
  • Verify system operations.
  • Program the controllers.
  • Conduct customer walk-through.
  • Request final inspection.

    Service and Maintain the System:
  • Perform scheduled maintenance.
  • Troubleshoot and repair system.
  • Ensure OSHA compliance.

    Conclusion:
    From the above comparisons, it is clear that many of the competencies are similar. The purpose is replicated in each of the qualifications that is, to develop competence in the installation of solar power systems, in the testing, repairing and maintaining solar water heating systems and equipment, so as to meet the requirements for safe and correct installation. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification articulates horizontally to the following:
  • Occupational Certificate: Plumber at NQF Level 4.
  • Further Education and Training Certificate in Lift Installation and Maintenance at NQF Level 4.

    And vertically to:
  • Higher Certificate in Renewable Energy Technologies at NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2015. 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for External Assessment:
    In order to qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required modules by means of statements of results and work experience.

    Foundational Learning:
    Foundational learning competence is a pre-requisite for the awarding this qualification.

    Criteria for the Accreditation of Providers:
    Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant curriculum on the QCTO website.

    Curriculum:
    The curriculum title and code is Occupational Certificate: Solar Water Installer: 642602001.

    This qualification covers the following recorded trades:
  • None.

    Assessment Quality Partner:
    Institute of Plumbing of South Africa (IOPSA).

    Occupational note:
    In accordance with the Building Regulations, no person other than a qualified Plumber can supervise and sign-off an installation.

    Part Qualifications:
    This qualification does not have any associated part qualifications. 
    		•

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.